Imagine a playground built with every kid and ability in mind — that is what will soon be coming to Heritage Park through the Harvesting Inclusive Play project.
Pioneered by Chattanooga Fire Department Captain Skyler Phillips who was inspired by the needs of his son, the city’s largest all-inclusive play area will take shape as Harvest Playground.
What exactly does inclusive play look like? Phillips said the playground will be split into two areas — a ~5,000-sqft area for ages 2-5 + a ~10,000-sqft area for ages 5-12. Renderings showcase:
- Swings with varying seats, including disability-friendly options
- One long structure that features slides, a barn playhouse, and more that has ramp + stair access
- A merry-go-round with wheelchair compatibility
- Enrichment activities throughout the grounds
It can’t be all play and no work though — the total project costs ring up to $2 million. While joint efforts, including a recent contribution from local government, have brought funding to $1.1 million, there are still ways to offer support.
Folks can buy bricks that will make up Harvest Playground’s walkway or choose from different levels of monetary donations.
Phillips said they hope to secure all funding by the end of the year to break ground in the spring.
